DEFINITION
A historic district is a geographically definable area designated by the City Commission as possessing a significant concentration, linkage, or continuity of properties united historically or aesthetically by plan or physical development. A district may have within its boundaries non-contributing buildings or structures that while not of historic or architectural significance, still contribute to the over-all visual character of the district.

PURPOSE
To preserve and protect historical and architectural resources which serve as visible reminders of the City’s culture and heritage.
To protect and enhance the scale, character and stability of existing neighborhoods.
To avoid adverse effects on historic properties and historic districts.
To protect against the destruction of or encroachment upon areas which contribute to the character of the City.

Following historic designation ALL exterior alterations, additions, new construction, and demolition are reviewed by the Historic Preservation Division or the Historic Preservation Board. The entire exterior of contributing and non-contributing structures are reviewed, not just the main facades.

NOMINATION PROCESS

Nominations may be initiated by the HPB, City Commission, 51% of the owners, or the Preservation Planner

Submit a Designation Application

Notice is mailed to surrounding properties within 400 feet and advertised in the local newspaper

Presented to the Historic Preservation Board for a recommendation

Presented to the City Commission for final approval

Listed in the West Palm Beach Register of Historic Places

CRITERIA FOR DESIGNATION

Event

Significant Person

Design/Construction

Information Potential

Location/Characteristics

The area must possess historic contexts or themes which describe the historical relationship of the properties. These contexts/themes may address cultural, socio-economical, political, archeological, and/or architectural aspects of the City’s development. A time period of significance of the district is established.

The area must be significant in one or more of the following areas of significance:

CITY CENTER

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